When the nurse discontinues a 24-hour postoperative client's patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump, the client asks to go to the hospital's smoking area to smoke a cigarette. Which response should the nurse provide?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Advising the client to wait at least one hour before leaving the unit may not address the underlying health risks associated with smoking, especially after surgery. It does not provide sufficient health education about the dangers of smoking. Choice B reason: Allowing the client to smoke in their room is inappropriate and unsafe. Smoking indoors poses fire hazards and exposes others to secondhand smoke, which is harmful. This response is not acceptable in a healthcare setting. Choice C reason: This response addresses the health risks of smoking and provides sound advice for postoperative care. Educating the client about the dangers of smoking, especially after surgery, is crucial for their recovery and overall health. Choice D reason: Allowing the client to go to the smoking area in a wheelchair does not address the health risks associated with smoking, especially after surgery. This response is not appropriate for promoting the client's health and recovery.